Economy

Average mortgage interest rates have reached their highest level in over two years, with the 10-year fixed rate (NHG) climbing to 4.01%. Driven by rising capital market rates linked to geopolitical instability in the Middle East, this increase adds approximately €25 to the monthly net costs of a €400,000 mortgage. While experts at De Hypotheker believe the sharpest peaks are likely over, the combination of higher borrowing costs and global uncertainty has already led to increased buyer caution, stalling the growth of average mortgage amounts for the first time in three years.

According to the Chamber of Commerce (KvK), the number of businesses closing down fell by 7.2% in the first quarter of this year, marking the first decline in two and a half years. While overall start-ups rose by 2%, sectors such as healthcare and the arts saw a drop in new entries due to ongoing uncertainty surrounding self-employment regulations. Experts suggest the general dip in closures indicates that many struggling owners have already exited the market, though strict rules regarding "bogus self-employment" continue to make potential entrepreneurs more hesitant in specific industries.

TSMC posted record first‑quarter profits in 2026, driven by relentless global demand for AI chips. The world’s largest advanced‑chip manufacturer raised its full‑year outlook and said the Middle East conflict has not disrupted its supply chain or slowed investment in AI infrastructure.

Dutch house prices slipped back below the half‑million‑euro mark in early 2026, while the number of homes on the market increased significantly. New figures from the national real estate association (NVM) show cooling demand, regional contrasts, and a housing market that is slowly regaining balance.

The Dutch economy is facing renewed pressure as the Iran conflict drives up global energy prices. Fresh projections from the Central Planning Bureau show that inflation will rise faster than previously expected, wiping out the modest purchasing‑power growth households were set to gain this year.

The Netherlands saw a slight dip in unemployment in March, signalling a cautiously improving labour market. While the number of people without work remains elevated compared to recent years, new figures show a gradual rise in employment and fewer benefit claims across most regions.

ASML has lifted its revenue forecast for 2026, citing strong demand driven by investments in artificial intelligence infrastructure. The chip machine maker says customers are expanding capacity, even as possible new export restrictions remain under discussion.

The Netherlands and Colombia are convening a landmark summit in Santa Marta to establish a concrete strategy for moving away from fossil fuels. As global energy prices remain volatile, ministers and environmental groups are debating whether the talks will lead to genuine policy shifts or remain limited to diplomatic gestures.